Treatments for Osteoarthritis

Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis (OA), most symptoms can be managed with a combination of lifestyle changes and medications. If these don't work, or if OA is affecting quality of life, surgery may be an option. The earlier OA is detected and treated, the better it can be controlled and joint damage can be minimized.

The goals of OA treatment include:

Pain relief

Maintaining the greatest possible mobility and function

Decreasing joint deformity

Slowing disease progression

Maintaining or improving quality of life

OA is different in everyone. Working with a healthcare team that is made up of doctors, surgeons, nurses, pharmacists, and other health professionals is important to help find the treatments that works best for each person.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

Osteoarthritis.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/Health%5FInfo/Osteoarthritis/default.asp. Updated August 2013. Accessed December 1, 2014.